General News
28 November, 2024
Stay and play
FAR Northerners are being urged to stay and play in the Douglas Shire with the launch of the annual ‘Douglas Card’ which offers locals across the region holiday benefits in the Daintree, including unlimited ferry rides, free entry to Mossman Gorge and other great discount deals.
The card is a joint venture between Douglas Shire Council (DSC) and Tourism Port Douglas and Daintree (TPDD). It has been available since 2014 and has been issued to over 6000 residents keen to explore their own backyard.
The card is available to residents of the Douglas Shire, Wujal Wujal Aboriginal Shire, Mareeba Shire, Hopevale Shire, Yarrabah Aboriginal Shire, Cook Shire and Cairns, Tablelands and Cassowary Coast regions.
Jacklyn Kiernan, co-owner of Cape Trib Camping, told the Gazette that the Douglas Card was a great boost for both local businesses and the community.
“With the free ferry crossing, it’s the perfect chance for local visitors to explore and rediscover the Daintree,” she said. “Guests can take advantage of great specials and discounts on offer. At Cape Trib Camping, we're running exciting promotions over the green season, such as kids stay free and 20 per cent off camping for Douglas card holders – plus our airconditioned bar is open all summer offering a relaxing spot to unwind after a day of adventure.”
Douglas Shire Mayor Lisa Scomazzon said it had never been so important to support local tourism operators during the quieter summer months.
“(The) council has worked hard to repair the Daintree road network since Jasper and now is the ideal time to explore this spectacular part of the world,” she said.
“The usual return ferry fee has been scrapped for local Douglas cardholders until February 28 next year.
“That’s a saving of nearly $50 that you could spend elsewhere during your Daintree experience.”
TPDD chief executive officer Emma Tunnock said the Douglas Card was an important initiative for locals.
“The Douglas Card invites locals across the Far North to explore the Mossman Daintree region, where the rainforest truly comes alive in the summer months,” she said.
“It’s the perfect time to experience the world’s oldest living rainforest. From Daintree ice cream to reef trips, and horse riding on Cape Trib beach, as well as the breathtaking Mossman Gorge, there’s so much to enjoy.
“We encourage our fellow Far North Queenslanders to take advantage of the Douglas Card, pack the car and take a drive to the Port Douglas Daintree region for an unforgettable tropical summer staycation.”
Locals can apply for a free Douglas Card online with proof of residency such as a driver’s licence, at
